The candy and confectionery business consists of a broad array of chocolates, hard candy products, taffy, fudge bars, and much more. It is clear that adults and children around the world enjoy these sweets, and new gourmet candy is hitting the shelves of retail stores every year. Some of these chocolate bars, caramels, and peanut brittle products are even totally organic. In order to get a better understanding of this industry and what it has to offer, some helpful key terms and definitions are listed below.

Alfajor – This is a traditional South African cookie that is sometimes offered in specialty confectionary shops. It typically consists of two round biscuits that are held together by a sweet jelly or jam.

Dodol – A type of toffee treat or candy that is considered a delicacy in certain parts of the world. It is popular in eastern regions like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Dragee – These are coated almonds, candies, and other nuts. Typically the coating is sweet, such as a candy or chocolate shell.

Divinity – A white colored, nougat-like confectionary. It is made primarily with egg whites and sugar. Typically divinity has some type of chopped nuts in it.

Marzipan – This is an almond-based sweet or gourmet confection. It has a dough-like consistency, and is often shaped into small animals or fruits, and then served or sold in retail stores. Depending on the type of marzipan, it may have flavor added.

Mithai – This refers to confectionery foods and treats in India. It often includes products made from some type of flour, as well as dairy products. Sugar and molasses are used as sweeteners.

Candy and confectionery products are sold around the world every day. There are countless retail stores and shops that specialize in treats such as dark chocolate bars, gourmet cookies, jellybeans, cotton candy, and many other sweets. Both children and adults seek out confectionery treats all the time. In fact, there is likely a retail candy store in your area that offers such products, regardless of what city you live in. In short, sweets and chocolate are a major industry.
There are many different varieties of candy and confectionery items available. Therefore, it is not an issue if one consumer is after gourmet black licorice, or sugar free lollipops. Then again, some individuals may be interested in fresh peanut brittle or fudge bar selections. Candy stores and fudge shops across the United States make these sweet treats daily. These professionals also specialize in saltwater taffy, caramel truffles, mint patties, bubble gum, and even healthy cookies. This way, the needs and preferences of most consumers are met. Depending on what candy store or fudge shop it is, they may offer more unique treats like homemade hard candy, gourmet chocolate covered nuts, or organic cookies.
If there are confectionery or candy shops in your neck of the woods, you may want to consider getting in touch with them to learn more about what is offered daily. It is common for retail confectionery stores to specialize in certain treats, so you should make inquires that pertain to your preferences or needs in order to obtain the right information.